Find jury instructions using these databases. Access is restricted and requires a username and password.
Bloomberg Law - Choose Litigation dropdown tab → Litigation Resources → Scroll to down and use the "Find Jury Instructions" search box
Lexis - Choose the "Content" tab of the "Explore" menu → Jury Instructions
Westlaw - Choose the "Content types" tab → Secondary Sources → Jury Instructions
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Jury instructions are an important component of a trial because they focus the jury on the specific issues and laws applicable to the case being tried. Jury instructions should identify the issues the jury will need to decide and help them understand the legal principles of the case. The importance of jury instructions to the outcome of the case cannot be stressed enough. Jurors cannot issue a proper verdict if the jury instructions are not understandable or if they do not appropriately address the legal issues of the case. Trial courts can be reversed for providing a poorly worded or inadequate instruction. An erroneous jury instruction may require a new trial. Therefore, a successful jury instruction is understandable with clear, simple statements which are less likely to contain errors.
Jury instructions are also an important legal research tool because they explain the law in plain language, include what elements need to be proven and provide citations to relevant cases and statutes. From a research standpoint, the most helpful are annotated forms and jury instructions that provide citations. Pattern or model jury instructions may also provide commentary and summarize the authority behind the instruction as well as serve as a checklist for the points of law that will need to be covered in the instructions and at trial. Therefore, jury instructions can be an invaluable resource for preparing complaints, defenses and courtroom arguments.
